Scrutiny persists over biomass plant in Springfield AP PHOTO AP PHOTO Modified: 12/31/2020 10:47:44 AM SPRINGFIELD — As the year comes to an end, environmental and racial justice advocates are sounding the alarm about legislation and regulations that are set to benefit a proposed wood-burning power plant in Springfield. The energy plant, which developer Palmer Renewable Energy secured a permit for a decade ago, has long been the subject of controversy. Opponents have pointed to research that shows burning “biomass” — wood chips or pellets made from trees and cleared brush — results in significant greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants harmful to human health. The project is located in Springfield, which the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has named the asthma capital of the country.